InTradition, Arneiro 1969's gathering dedicated to Portuguese goldsmithing, welcomes a new experience. On 14 November, we invite you to step out from behind the shop window and take a seat at the workbench, to create your own filigree piece, thread by thread, guided by Inês Barbosa's workshop.
Filigree, an art of patience
Few techniques represent Portuguese goldsmithing as well as filigree. Ultra-fine threads of gold or silver are twisted by hand, cut one by one and placed side by side inside the outline of the piece, until they form the delicate lacework we so often associate with the Heart of Viana, the Queen's earrings (brincos à rainha) or the Viana beads.
This art was born in the north of Portugal, in Gondomar and Póvoa de Lanhoso. Today, Filigrana de Portugal is a certified artisanal production and has been formally nominated for UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It is a recognition of the value of a craft handed down from generation to generation, one that Arneiro 1969 is proud to preserve and share.
Inês Barbosa, a life devoted to the thread
Born in Póvoa de Lanhoso, Inês Barbosa learned filigree from her father and comes from a family of goldsmiths spanning several generations. She has devoted herself to this art since 1978 and has been teaching since 1992. In her workshop, traditional techniques take on contemporary forms, inspired by ancient Portuguese jewellery and by nature.
Recognised as a master artisan, she represents Portuguese jewellery at exhibitions around the world. Today, her daughters follow the same path, ensuring this knowledge lives on.
Inês Barbosa's pieces are part of the Arneiro 1969 curated selection, and we are very proud to share this experience with Inês. Discover the Inês Barbosa collection here.
What the workshop will be like
Over the course of a morning, you will:
- Learn about the history of Portuguese goldsmithing, in a short introduction to its techniques, symbols and traditions;
- Get to know Inês Barbosa, her journey and the way she works with filigree;
- Create your own piece, guided by Inês, step by step;
- Enjoy a coffee break, to chat and share the experience.
No experience needed, just the will to create.
After the workshop, your piece goes to Inês's workshop, where it is soldered and finished with the care every jewel deserves. It will then be shipped to you, or be ready for collection at the Arneiro 1969 store.
Practical information
- Date: Saturday, 14 November 2026
- Time: 9:30 am to 1:30 pm
- Venue: NH Sintra
- Participants: only 15 places
Pre-registration now open
Pre-registration is now open. Everyone who pre-registers will receive the booking link 48 hours before bookings open to the public, with priority access to one of the 15 places.
We look forward to welcoming you to put your hands on tradition.
Make a weekend of it in Sintra
In partnership with NH Sintra, participants enjoy exclusive rates for the workshop weekend. The perfect opportunity to extend the experience and discover Sintra at your own pace.
